Rolled sheet material dispenser with improved brake mechanism

ABSTRACT

A rolled sheet material dispensing device including an improved braking mechanism having a pair of outer, opposed brackets hingedly attached to a base or surface, in a substantially perpendicular axis to the base or surface, in spaced relationship to each other, extending forwardly from the base or surface. The brackets are biased to a first position and movable inwards, and removably mount an axially compressible support tube assembly which loosely journals and rotatably retains a roll of sheet material by extending through the center tube of the roll. The brackets can be pushed inwards from the first position to frictionally grip the roll between the brackets, thereby exerting a braking force on the roll to prevent free-wheeling of the roll during unwinding, and to hold the roll in place while a portion is being torn therefrom.

This patent application references Disclosure Document number 550,403.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

Not applicable

STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH/DEVELOPMENT

Not Applicable

BACKGROUND

1. Field of Invention

This invention relates to holders and dispensers of material in rollform, and, more particularly, to a holder and dispenser with an abilityto exert a braking force on the roll to more easily facilitate thetearing of sheets off the roll and to prevent free-wheeling of the rollduring unwinding thereof.

2. Description of the Prior Art

Various household and industrial materials are supplied in a continuousroll wherein a predetermined amount of the roll can be removed for itsintended use. An example of such rolls of material are paper towels ortoilet tissue, which are usually supplied in a large roll and individualsheets are defined in the roll by a perforated line.

Dispensers for dispensing rolled sheet material off a roll are wellknown in the prior art. Some dispensers are made for vertical use,typically including a horizontal base plate with a rod protrudingvertically upwards therefrom. The roll is rotatably supported by theholder to permit a user to unwind the leading section from the roll andtear it off. Removing or replacing the roll generally involves pullingthe roll upwards off of the holder. Some models require the removal of acrown that is attached to the top of the vertical rod before the rollcan be removed.

The most common type of dispenser for horizontal use consists of agenerally U-shaped holder that has a base which is secured to a surfacesuch as a wall or cabinet or in a remote location, such as the insidesurface of a cabinet door or under the lower surface of a cabinetconventionally found in most household kitchens, and twooutwardly-directed brackets extending from the base. The bracketstypically have sockets which receive a support rod or an axiallycompressible support tube assembly, which is also received through thehollow core of the roll. These axially compressible support tubeassemblies are commercially available and can be purchased individuallyby consumers. Thus, individual sheets of articles can be removed bygripping the free end portion of the roll with one hand and rolling thedesired number of sheets to be removed to a point where a serrated lineis exposed and a second hand is utilized to grip the roll adjacent theserrated line so that the selected sheets can be removed from the roll.

Exchanging paper rolls in this type of dispenser entail, firstly, thesupport rod must be axially compressed so that the rod and the used-uproll can be removed from between the brackets. After removing theused-up roll, a new roll is inserted on to the support rod which must beaxially compressed to reinsert both the support rod and the new rollback into the holder.

One of the problems encountered in such arrangements is free-wheeling ofthe roll during unwinding. In order to separate the leading section froma roll supported for rotation in such a dispenser, the user pulls onthis section to unwind it from the roll. This results in rotation of theroll. But a common experience when a user takes this action is for theroll to unwind to dispense several sections rather than just the leadingsection. Inertial forces tend to result in a continuation of suchrotation even after the desired amount of material has been unwound fromthe roll.

Additionally, the user may attempt to pull on the free end forcefully inorder to tear it off of the roll, and then with a wrist snap action,tear this section from the roll, which often results in the samecontinuation of such rotation after the desired amount of material hasbeen torn from the roll. This results in considerable waste and also cancause contamination of the material if the free end thereof is too longand contacts a surrounding surface such as a floor.

Occasionally this forceful pull does not result in a tearing of thematerial; instead it pulls-off even more sheets from the roll than theuser desires, which must then be either wastefully discarded, or rewoundback into the roll, causing further contamination of those sheets if theuser's hands are wet or dirty. This process is also frustrating to theuser, and the physical exertion needed to forcefully pull the sheets inthis manner may cause strain in the user.

The other way that material is often torn from the roll is by the userpulling on the free end of the roll with one hand, and holding the rollin place with their other hand when they are ready to tear the sheetsoff the roll, thereby contaminating the sheets still on the roll withany dirt, liquid, or germs that may be on the hand holding the roll.This contamination may lead to the inadvertent spreading of disease tothe next user of the roll. It may also create an additional waste ofmaterial if the user tears-off and discards noticeably contaminatedsheets without using them.

One of the other difficulties encountered in the utilization of priorart dispensers is the difficulty of removing a selected length ofmaterial from the roll. The sheet is frequently torn in an unsightly andwasteful fashion resulting in additional waste of material by subsequentusers because there is a tendency to reject the unevenly torn portion ofthe material and to draw a greater length of material from the dispenserwhere such a condition exists.

Another issue noticeable in the prior art is that dispensers aretypically made either for vertical, unmounted use or horizontal, mounteduse, but not both. When a consumer with a counter-top model wishes tochange to a wall-mounted model, or vice-versa, they must purchaseanother dispenser to fit that configuration. This is a financial burdenfor the consumer and is detrimental for the environment, causing moreconstruction material to be used than would be necessary if dispenserscould be used for both vertical and horizontal use.

Some models claim to have the ability of both horizontal and verticaluse, but are not really suited for both. For example, U.S. Pat. No.4,487,376 claims to be adaptable to horizontal or vertical use. However,to be used in a mounted, horizontal manner, the device would protrudefrom the wall in an awkward, unstable, unsightly, and perhaps dangerousmanner. This device would also be awkward to use in its intended fashionwhile mounted to a wall, and would not suit itself to being mountedunderneath or within a cabinet. U.S. Pat. No. 5,938,141 is a verticalcountertop model that has the ability to work as a horizontal version,but not in and of itself; instead an already-existing horizontal modelwould need to be modified with the above referenced invention.

There are also dispensers in the prior art with various designs that aremeant to aid in the tearing-off of sheets from a roll, which typicallyinclude a separate tearing rod or other protrusion, some of which arestatic, and some which are spring-loaded, such as Frontgate's papertowel holder that features a “spring-tension arm that adjusts to thesize of the roll, allowing you to tear-off a towel with just one hand.”However, models such as these need heavy bases to keep them in place,and often do not work as intended. For example, the user must beaccurate in the placement of the perforations of the sheet to be tornagainst the protrusion for it to work correctly, and often the sheeteither does not tear off, or it does not tear along the perforations.Sometimes the device becomes unbalanced in spite of its heavy base.There are some models that use suction-cup means to hold the dispenserin place on a counter-top, such as CreativeWare's paper towel holder.However, users of these devices often still hold the device and/or theroll in place when tearing in order to secure it, which is an intuitiveand natural action for users.

Other dispensers in the prior art are designed for one-handed use, suchas U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,988,561 and 1,953,349 and U.S. Pat. Application No.US2002/0171003, which can be used as horizontal dispensers only, andhave complicated internal mechanisms. They also use unfamiliar means toreplace the roll. M. Kamenstein's “Perfect-Tear” is a dispenser thatenables one-handed use by means of an internal ratcheting mechanism thatlocks the roll in place when the user pulls downwards on the sheet inorder to tear it off the roll. However, there is little stability to thedispenser except for a weighted base, whereby the device itself may tipover in use unless held in place by the user's other hand. There is alsoa constant impedance on the free movement of the roll, which makes itmore difficult to pull the sheet from the roll, and may cause the sheetto tear-off the roll before the user desires it to, if they desire morethan one sheet.

In some conventional dispensers, the brackets are attached to the basein a flexible manner, which allows the brackets to bend both inwards,towards each other, and outwards, away from each other. This allows theroll to be changed by simply flexing the brackets outward to remove andre-insert the roll, eliminating the need for support means to supportthe roll. However, this configuration does not allow the device to beused for braking the roll, because if one bracket is pressed inwardsagainst the end of the roll, the roll would hence push the opposingbracket outwards, therefore not effectively braking the movement of theroll. Further, dispensers with this configuration may allow the flexingoutwards of the arms when the leading section of the roll is pulled in aforceful way at any angle other than perpendicular to the roll, and theroll itself may be pulled off the dispenser, as discussed in U.S. Pat.No. 5,292,083, which discloses a spring mechanism that prevents the rollfrom being pulled off such a dispenser, for placement between thebrackets of dispensers of this type. Additionally, the devices thatincorporate this type of mechanism cannot be used as un-mounted,vertical-use models, only mounted. Further, none of these inventionsclaim braking means. Examples of this type of holder are U.S. Pat. Nos.4,381,083, 2,091,311, and 3,038,676. Similar devices disclose arms thatalso flex inward to provide a constant brake on the roll, whichexperience the same drawbacks as other dispensers that provide aconstant brake, whereby the material may tear-off when pulled before thedesired length is acquired. Examples of this type of holder are U.S.Pat. Nos. 1,955,067, 1,999,759, 2,049,964, 2,072,519, and 3,116,030.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,149,003 shows a toilet paper and paper towel holder thathas only one of it's brackets attached to the base by springs to make iteasier to load or reload a roll of paper. Because the other bracket ispermanently attached, it could be used as a braking mechanism if a userpressed inwards on the movable bracket, however, it does not mentiondoing so. It is interesting to note in the above patent that theinventor wants to eliminate the axially compressible support tubeassembly altogether, saying: “Another object of the present invention isto provide a toilet paper holder which eliminates the need for acompressible support tube for supporting the toilet paper roll.” Even ifthe above invention were to be used for braking the roll, it would notallow both left and right-handed use if wall-mounted, and would sufferfrom the same drawbacks as similar devices herein discussed.

U.S. Pat. No. 6,402,085 discloses a dispenser with brackets that areadjustable to the length of the roll, while U.S. Pat. No. 6,401,597shows a coffee filter paper support mechanism with a hinged bracket.

A number of dispensers have been devised with various braking means forpreventing free-wheeling or over-running of rolls, and some thatfacilitate easier tearing of sheets from the roll. These take severalforms, most notably those devices that apply a constant braking to theroll, and those that apply braking to the roll only temporarily, whenthe user is ready to tear-off a sheet from the roll.

Those devices in the prior art that apply a constant brake or pressureon the roll or support rod to prevent it from unraveling have thedrawback of the paper sometimes tearing before the desired amount isunraveled for use, which may cause frustration and inconvenience to theuser, who must then pull-off additional sheets in order to get thenumber of sheets they desire. The following disclose devices believedrepresentative of the current state of the prior art for these continualbraking devices: U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,794,882, 5,758,843, 5,755,397,5,467,935, 5,249,755, 4,832,271, 4,792,102, 4,720,053, 4,660,781,4,913,364, 4,248,391, 3,850,379, 3,770,221, 3,516,615, 3,319,855,2,669,903, 2,254,735, 2,049,964, 1,391,326, 1,187,705, 1,079,524, and813,128.

Those devices in the prior art that apply only a temporary brake to theroll are divided into two groups, those that apply a constant brake thatis removed by the user in order to pull sheets off, and those that applya brake only when the user is ready to tear sheets off of the roll.These methods provide the user with more control over and ease ofmovement of the roll while they are pulling on the leading sheet.

In variations that have the brake on until deactivated, the movement ofthe roll is impeded by a brake, which is a component of the device. Theuser must remove the brake in order to pull sheets from the roll,whereupon they replace the brake for tearing off the sheets. Thesedevices are complicated to manufacture and use, and require extra andunnatural movement of the non-tearing hand. Additionally, thesedispensers cannot be used as conventional dispensers if a user isunfamiliar with or does not desire to use the braking mechanism.Examples of this type of configuration are U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,690,345,2,749,056, and 4,790,490, and U.S. Pat. Application No. US 2003/0019972.

In variations that have the brake off until activated, in which thepresent invention belongs, the movement of the roll is only impeded whena brake, which is a component of the device, is applied. An example ofthis is U.S. Pat. No. 5,135,179, which has very complicated internalmeans for accomplishing this end.

U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,439,501, 5,799,895, 4,919,350, and 2,540,436 utilizethe pulling of the roll to lock it in place. However, they appear to beawkward in use, whereas a user would be required to pull on the roll ina certain way in order to not lock the roll before the desired amount ofsheets are removed before tearing.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,135,179 to Morano discloses a paper towel holder withbrake. However, the device is quite complex and therefore more difficultand costly to manufacture and use than the present invention, amongother disadvantages similar to previous devices discussed herein.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,167,377 discloses a bag dispenser with stopping meansthat is manually adjusted to the width of the roll.

OXO brand's “Grip & Rip” is a countertop dispenser with braking meansand a rotating base. It works whereby the downward pressure of a user'shand on the top of the device causes enough friction on the countertopto prevent the base from spinning. There is no spring mechanism. Theproblem with this model is that when the user grips the top of thisdevice, in order to simply stabilize it whilst pulling a sheet from theroll with their other hand, the roll gets more difficult to pull becauseof the pressure needed to stabilize the device, or the roll becomeslocked in place, making it difficult to pull the sheets from the roll.It can also cause the user to take fewer sheets than they may need inthat particular situation, since the unwelcome pressure on the rollcauses the roll to tear before the user desires it to. It also would notwork well as a wall-mounted holder. Other examples of this configurationinclude U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,487,376 and 5,938,141.

Another example is U.S. Pat. No. 4,285,474 which shows a spring-loadedcover in combination with a toilet paper holder. U.S. Pat. No. 5,170,956shows a Dispenser for Rolled Sheet Material utilizing a hollow rubberball which, when compressed via an external handle, expands tofrictionally contact the inner core of the roll. U.S. Pat. No. 6,357,687B1 shows an Easily Tear-Off Tissue Holder that uses an internal springsurrounded by elastic. When the top is pressed down, the elastic expandsto frictionally contact the inner core of the roll. U.S. Pat. No.4,369,929 shows a Dispenser for Rolled Sheet Goods with stop means atthe top of the housing meant for vertical, unmounted use only.

A further example is Copco's Stainless Steel Paper Towel Holder. Its topcan be pressed down to brake the roll. It uses a non-removable internalspring mechanism, appearing to make use of U.S. Pat. No. 4,738,385, byBell, showing a Dispensing Apparatus, of which Copco's parent companyare assignees. A similar patent to Bell's is U.S. Pat. No. 6,478,246 B2,by Fahringer, showing a Paper Towel Dispenser System.

The Fahringer patent shows a spring mechanism in the handle of thedevice, which, when pressed, frictionally engages the top of the roll.The Bell patent shows a spring mechanism in the vertical post of thedevice, creating a plunger that enables the top, when compressed, tofrictionally engage the top of the roll. These devices need to bepressed down in a mostly vertical fashion, which can be difficult if,for example, an elbow is being used to press on the top instead of ahand, in which case there is less accuracy in the angle of pressing.

Neither of these patents, nor any of the patents discussed above, show asimple dispenser utilizing the inherent qualities of a removable axiallycompressible support tube assembly, nor the ability to be convenientlyand easily used for both vertical and horizontal use. Neither of thesepatents show the ability to fold compactly and in a substantially flatcondition when not in use, nor the ability to work consistently withrolls of differing lengths, nor the ability to be used with limitedaccuracy for correct operation. The consumer must also use unfamiliarmethods to change the rolls in these devices than they are used to withconventional devices. Such mechanisms are complex in their design andtherefore more difficult for the consumer to use as well as learn touse.

Additionally, many of the prior art devices are characterized by theirrelative complexity in manufacture, and consequent high expense. Thesecomplex dispensers also break more often than simple dispensers, and aremore difficult to repair.

While these devices fulfill their respective, particular objectives andrequirements, the aforementioned patents do not describe a dispenserthat uses the inherent qualities of a removable axially compressiblesupport tube assembly as the mechanism to facilitate braking. In thisrespect, the mechanism claimed in the present invention substantiallydeparts from the concepts and designs of the prior art, and in doing soprovides an apparatus which provides superior results over the prior artin simplicity, safety, hygiene, function, ease of leaning and operation,control, versatility, storage, environmental benefits, ergonomics, andease and cost of manufacture.

Therefore, it can be appreciated that there exists a continuing need fora new and improved rolled sheet material dispenser with improved brakemechanism which can be used for easily disbursing a user-selected amountof rolled sheet material for use. In this regard, the present inventionsubstantially fulfills this need.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The teachings of the invention will be described herein below asembodied in a dispenser for paper sheet from a paper roll having a core,such as paper towels and toilet tissue, but it is, of course, notintended that the teachings of the invention be limited to a dispenserfor dispensing a particular type of material since it will be obvious tothose skilled in the art that other types of household and industrialmaterial in roll form may be dispensed by the utilization of thedisclosed dispenser, including but not limited to various paperproducts, printed material, packaging material, foils, wrapping paper,wax paper, bags, plastic sheet, laminate and other materialsmanufactured in roll form. In the illustrated embodiment, the individualarticles which form the roll are separated by serrated lines orperforations.

Similarly, the teachings of the invention should not be limited to theattaching means shown in this embodiment, since it will be obvious tothose skilled in the art that other types of hinging means and methodsmay be used, as well as other attaching means and methods that allowmovement of the brackets to brake the roll. Nor should the teachings ofthe invention be limited to the particular axially compressible supporttube assembly shown in this embodiment, since many variations in size,configuration, and design already exist, and many others can easily becontemplated to fit a particular type or size of roll or dispenser.

The primary object of this invention is to provide a rolled sheetmaterial dispenser with an improved braking mechanism to brake the rollagainst inadvertent unwinding of an excess quantity of material, and tohold the roll in place while a portion is being torn therefrom. This isaccomplished by providing a dispenser having a pair of outer, opposedbrackets hingedly attached in predetermined, spaced relationship to eachother to the surface of a base or directly to a surface such as a wall,cabinet door, cabinet surface, or other surface, allowing a swingingmovement of the brackets from a normally substantially perpendicularaxis to the surface, inward towards each other.

The brackets are normally biased by an axially compressible support tubeassembly removably mounted between them to erect service positionssubstantially perpendicular to the surface, allowing the free rotationof the roll mounted thereon. The brackets are designed so that they abutthe surface when they are erected to their service positions, wherebythe swinging movement of the brackets is limited to an extentdeterminative of said service positions. In other words, the bracketscan only swing inwards from their erect service positions, but notoutwards from these positions. The biasing means accommodates temporaryinward movement of the brackets towards each other so that the innerfaces of the brackets frictionally engage the ends of the roll, wherebythey grip and hold the roll in a predetermined position so that anarticle can readily be separated from the roll. Consequently, there is aresultant tendency on the part of the person utilizing the device tolimit the amount of material dispensed from the roll.

The axially compressible support tube assembly typically is comprised ofa spring-loaded spindle means comprising two separate sleeves, andhaving end pins or projections adapted to be sprung or snapped intoopposed sockets in the brackets whereby it loosely journals androtatably retains a roll of sheet material by extending through thecenter core of the roll. The axially compressible support tube assemblycan easily be removed from the brackets for replacement of the usedroll.

In operation, the user with one hand pulls the unwound leading sectionof the roll until a desired length is unwound from the roll, then withhis other hand presses inward on either bracket toward an edge of theroll. Since the brackets hinge inward from their erect servicepositions, the roll becomes sandwiched between the two brackets, thusarresting rotation of the roll and further unwinding thereof. With thebracket still pressed inwards to brake the rotation of the roll, theuser then tears off the unwound, leading section from the roll,afterwhich the bracket is released so that it returns to its erectservice position through the biasing means in the axially compressiblesupport tube assembly.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a rolled sheetmaterial dispenser which may be adapted for fabrication from manydifferent materials, so that the choice of material and finish can beaccording to the dictates of style, availability, price and otherconsiderations, being matters easily determined to suit particularconditions and needs.

Another object is to provide a dispenser which generally improves andsimplifies the construction and operation of dispensers of the characterdescribed.

Another object is to provide a dispenser which, through the use of anaxially compressible support tube assembly, facilitates simple,unobtrusive, and inexpensive design, manufacturing, and assembly of thedevice, since these support tube assemblies are commercially availablefor purchase and may not need to be manufactured specifically for thepresent invention. This facilitates economies of scale, and thereforeeither a lower retail selling price, or greater profit margins for themanufacturer. The commercial availability of hinging and other attachingmeans that can be used in the present invention will also facilitatethese benefits.

Another object is to provide a dispenser which is simple to understandand use, safe, easy, and convenient to operate, and which will givegenerally efficient, reliable, and durable service. The presentinvention provides a dispenser in which a paper roll may be quickly,easily, and readily inserted or removed. This is accomplished by usingan axially compressible support tube assembly that most users ofconventional dispensers are already familiar with in its appearance,use, and operation.

Another object is to provide a dispenser which, through the use of anaxially compressible support tube assembly, can be used at any anglewithout loss of function, including but not limited to a horizontalposition, typically mounted on a wall, cabinet, or other surface, or ina vertical position, typically un-mounted, resting on a countertop orother flat surface, without the need for modification or additionalmechanism. This provides both environmental advantages and cost savingsto the user by his not needing to purchase a new model and disregard theold if he decides to change from a countertop to a wall-mounted model,or vice-versa. This advantage also affords the present invention a longproduct life cycle, that is further provided by the use of a removableaxially compressible support tube assembly, which can be easily replacedif it breaks or wears out.

Another object is to provide a dispenser which obviates the need for anyother type of biasing mechanism, by taking advantage of the inherentqualities in a removable axially compressible support tube assembly.

Another object is to provide a dispenser which will work consistentlywith rolls of varying lengths and widths. For example, the presentinvention would work just as well with paper towel rolls and toiletpaper rolls available in Europe, some of which are shorter in lengththan their American counterparts. Additionally, the present inventionworks consistently with the various stages of use of a roll, as itswidth decreases with use.

An additional object is to provide a dispenser which allows forambidextrous use, especially when wall-mounted. The user can use eithertheir left or right hands to do either the pulling of the leading sheetor the pressing of a bracket to lock the roll in place.

Another object is to provide a dispenser which folds compactly and in asubstantially flat condition when not in use, for easier and lessexpensive storage, warehousing, packaging and shipping, which is alsofacilitated by the use of a removable axially compressible support tubeassembly. Additionally, the present invention can be fully assembledbefore shipping and still enjoy the benefits of compact shipping,whereas many conventional holders, as well as others with brakemechanisms, either take up much more space for shipping, or are packagedand shipped not fully assembled, so that the user must assemble itthemselves upon purchase.

Another object is to provide a dispenser which affords total control tothe user by making it easier to unravel and remove multiple sheets, ifdesired, from the roll.

Another object is to provide a dispenser which in use follows thenatural two-handed motion of a user pulling sheets from a roll on aconventional, non-braking holder. This typically involves the userpulling on the leading sheet with one hand while the other hand gripsthe device itself, whereby the user stabilizes the device to keep it inplace while pulling. The user then grips the roll itself in order tobrake the roll, and tears off the leading sheet. By pressing inward onone of the brackets of the present invention, the user first stabilizesthe device and then brakes the roll by pressing the bracket further.

Another object is to provide a dispenser that can also be used as aconventional holder if a user is unfamiliar with or does not desire touse the braking mechanism.

Another object is to provide a dispenser which helps to prevent theunraveling of the roll while resting in a vertical position.

Another object is to provide a dispenser which can be partially orwholly operated with body parts other then hands, including but notlimited to elbows, forearms, wrists, fingers, or the chin. This isespecially useful if the user's hands are wet or dirty, and they do notwant to transfer the dirt or liquid onto the roll or the device. It isalso advantageous for users who have pain or difficulty using theirhands.

Another object is to provide a dispenser which can be operated with lessaccuracy than other braking dispensers in the prior art, for example inthe pressing inwards on one of the brackets of the device. The presentinvention's brackets can be pressed inwards from a broad range ofangles, which is advantageous in situations where, for example, an elbowinstead of a hand is being used to press on the bracket, in which casethe angle of pressing may not be straight. This advantage is furtheraccommodated when the present invention is used in a vertical position,in that the base itself may tilt forward to brake the roll instead of,or in addition to, the topmost bracket.

Another object is to provide a dispenser which does not need a weightedbase or other means to keep it from tipping over when not attached to asurface, for example when in vertical use on a countertop. The pressurefrom the user pressing downwards on the topmost bracket of the presentinvention will be sufficient to hold it securely in place. A loweroverall weight results in lower shipping costs, and less constructionmaterial needed to produce the device, which is both better for theenvironment and contributes to a lower selling price for the device.

Another object is to provide a dispenser which provides environmentaland cost-saving benefits because it helps prevent the user from pullingoff more sheets than they desire.

A further object is to provide a dispenser that helps to prevent thesheets from being torn in an unsightly and wasteful fashion.

Another object is to provide a dispenser which provides an enjoyablekinesthetic experience for users.

A further object is to provide a dispenser that minimizes the effortneeded to tear sheets from a roll.

Another object is to provide a dispenser in which the user does not needto hold the roll itself to brake the roll, which provides a cleaner,safer, and more hygienic device than conventional holders, and helpsprevent the spread of disease, especially if any dirt, liquid, germs,etc. are on their hands, which would otherwise be transferred onto theroll itself, and onto the following sheet or sheets of the roll, whichwill come into contact with the following user of that roll. This alsoreduces waste, since some users will pull-off a contaminated sheet anddispose of it unused in order to then be able to remove a cleaner sheet.

A final object of the present invention is to provide a rolled sheetmaterial dispenser that allows the user to first stabilize the holderwhile pulling a sheet of material from the roll, with no impedance onthe roll until the user is ready to tear the sheet from the roll. Thepresent invention allows partial braking means at first, to retard thespinning of the roll, then full braking means to facilitate braking andtherefore easier tearing of a sheet or sheets from the roll. This allowsthe user more control and lets them adjust their pulling and braking totheir own personal preference.

Other features, advantages, and objects of the present invention willbecome apparent with reference to the following description andaccompanying drawings. With these and other objects definitely in view,this invention consists in the novel construction, combination andarrangement of elements and portions, as will be hereinafter fullydescribed in the specification, particularly pointed out in the claims,and illustrated in the drawings which form a material part of thisdisclosure and wherein similar characters of reference indicate similaror identical elements and portions throughout the specification andthroughout the views of the drawing.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF SEVERAL VIEWS OF DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 of the drawings is a perspective view of the dispensing apparatusconstructed in accordance with the present invention, in use in ahorizontal position secured to surface W, having a roll, such as a rollof paper towels or toilet tissue, supported thereon;

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the present invention in a horizontalposition, having no roll supported thereon, showing the placement of theaxially compressible support tube assembly when mounted between thebrackets;

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a bracket, showing the hinge indent;

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the present invention in a horizontalposition, without the support tube mounted therein, with one bracketfolded against base 12, showing the placement of the hinging mechanism;

FIG. 5 is a cross sectional view taken along line 5-5 of FIG. 4;

FIG. 6 is a cross sectional view taken along line 6-6 of FIG. 7;

FIGS. 7 and 8 are side elevation views of the present invention in avertical position, before and during use, respectively, with partsthereof broken away for purposes of clarity;

FIG. 9 is a perspective view showing the present invention made withouta base 12, showing brackets 14 hingedly attached in a predetermined,spaced relationship directly to surface W;

FIG. 9A is a perspective view showing the present invention made withouta base 12, showing brackets 14 hingedly attached to pedestals 66, whichare then attached to surface W in a predetermined, spaced relationship;

FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing the present invention wherebrackets 14 are made with overhangs 60 which cover the ends of the base;

FIG. 11 is a perspective view showing the present invention made withperpendicular base extensions 64 for the brackets 14 to be hingedlyattached to;

FIG. 12 is a perspective view showing the present invention made with aliving hinge 62;

FIG. 13 is a perspective view showing the present invention with arecessed base 68;

FIG. 14 is a perspective view showing the present invention withbrackets 14 attached to base 12 with axially-slidable attachment means70;

FIG. 15 is a perspective view showing the present invention withbrackets 14 permanently attached to base 12 and having inwardlypressable braking means 72 accomodated within;

FIG. 16 is a cross sectional view taken along line 80-80 of FIG. 15,showing more clearly an example of an inwardly-pressable braking means72.

FIG. 16A is a cross sectional view taken along line 80-80 of FIG. 15,showing a different example of an inwardly pressable braking means 72.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMERALS

-   10—Rolled Sheet Material Dispenser With Improved Brake Mechanism-   12—Base-   13—Opening-   14—Bracket-   15—Inner Surface of Bracket-   16—Outer Surface of Bracket-   17—Socket-   18—Hinge Indent-   19—Upper Wall of Hinge Indent-   20—Hinging Attachment Means-   22—Screws-   30—Axially Compressible Support Tube Assembly-   31—Outer Spindle Member-   32—Outer Spindle Member End-   33—Outer Spindle Member Projection-   34—Outer Spindle Member Interior-   35—Inner Spindle Member-   36—Inner Spindle Member End-   37—Inner Spindle Member Projection-   38—Inner Spindle Member Interior-   40—Spring Means-   50—Roll of Sheet Material-   52—Perforation Line-   54—Leading Section of Roll-   60—Bracket Overhang-   62—Living Hinge-   64—Base Extension-   66—Pedestal-   68—Recessed Base-   70—Axially Slidable Attachment Means-   72—Inwardly Pressable Braking Means-   74—Inner Surface of Inwardly Pressable Braking Means-   76—Outer Surface of Inwardly Pressable Braking Means-   78—Hand-Shaped Logo-   W—Surface

DETAILED DESCRIPTION AND OPERATION

While this invention is susceptible of embodiment in many differentforms, there is shown in the drawings and will herein be described indetail preferred embodiments of the invention with the understandingthat the present disclosure is to be considered as an exemplification ofthe principles of the invention and is not intended to limit the broadaspect of the invention to the embodiments illustrated.

With reference now to the drawings, and in particular, to FIGS. 1through 8 thereof, the preferred embodiment of the rolled sheet materialdispenser with improved brake mechanism embodying the principles andconcepts of the present invention and generally designated by thereference number 10 will be described.

The device 10 includes a dispensing apparatus defined by two outerbrackets 14 hingedly attached to a surface of a base 12, and an axiallycompressible support tube assembly 30 removably mounted between brackets14. The axial force exerted by the axially compressible support tubeassembly 30 urges the brackets 14 to their upright service positions,toward their maximum deflection point substantially perpendicular tobase 12. The axially compressible support tube assembly 30 is adapted tohold a roll of sheet material 50 thereon for distribution by rotation.The axially compressible support tube assembly 30 is spring-biased toallow for its easy removal from between the two brackets for replacementof the roll. To exchange rolls in this type of dispenser, firstly, theaxially compressible support tube assembly 30 must be axially compressedso that it and the used-up roll can be removed from between brackets 14.After removing the used-up roll, a new roll is inserted onto axiallycompressible support tube assembly 30 which must be axially compressedto reinsert axially compressible support tube assembly 30 and a new rollinto dispenser 10.

FIG. 1 of the drawings shows dispensing apparatus 10, secured to surfaceW, having a roll of sheet material 50, such as paper towels or toilettissue, supported thereon. The roll 50 in the present case includes acylindrical core and is loosely mounted upon axially compressiblesupport tube assembly 30 and thus free for rotation thereof includingthe leading section 54 which projects from the windings of roll 50 andforms a part of said roll. The dispensing apparatus 10 is shown inhorizontal use, whereby the user with one hand grips and pulls the freeend of the unwound leading section 54 of roll 50, thereby rotating roll50 on axially compressible support tube assembly 30 until a desiredlength is unwound from roll 50, then with his other hand presses inwardon the outer surface 16 of bracket 14, toward an end of roll 50, wherebyaxially compressible support tube assembly 30 compresses, and the innerfaces 15 of brackets 14 abut and frictionally engage the ends of roll 50to brake rotation of roll 50 and prevent further unwinding thereof. Withthe bracket 14 still pressed inwards, braking the rotation of roll 50,the user then tears off the leading section 54 from the roll atperforation line 52. The user then removes his hand from the outersurface 16 of bracket 14, whereby bracket 14 is pressed back into itserect service position substantially perpendicular to the surface ofbase 12 by the decompression of axially compressible support tubeassembly 30, after which roll 50 may again be freely rotated. Either ofthe brackets 14 may be pressed to brake the rotation of roll 50. Otherbody parts can be used to press on brackets 14, including but notlimited to fingers, elbows, wrists, forearms, and chins.

The dispensing apparatus 10 is illustrated in FIG. 2 without a rollmounted thereon. Each bracket 14 is attached to base 12 with hingingattachment means 20. Base 12 is provided with openings 13 through whichscrews or the like may pass for securing dispensing apparatus 10 to asurface W, such as a wall, cabinet, or other surface. Device 10 may besecured to surfaces using other methods as well.

FIG. 3 illustrates a bracket 14, which is provided with a socket 17 onits inner surface 15. Bracket 14 is also provided with a hinge indent 18in which the hinging attachment means 20 is housed. Hinging attachmentmeans 20 is attached to the upper wall 19 of hinge indent 18 and thesurface of base 12 with screws 22 in a manner that allows brackets 14inward movement from a substantially perpendicular position relative tobase 12, towards the opposing bracket, into folded positions projectinglaterally toward each other. Brackets 14 are prevented from moving pasta substantially perpendicular position outward, away from the otherbracket, because of the placement of the hinging attachment means 20 andthe structure of brackets 14. This is further illustrated in FIGS. 4 and5.

An axially compressible support tube assembly 30 is shown in detail inFIG. 6. It illustrates one of many such variations of axiallycompressible support tube assemblies, and is shown here to betterexplain its function in the present invention. The axially compressiblesupport tube assembly 30 typically includes an inner spindle member 35defining an inner spindle member interior 38 and having an inner spindlemember end 36. The inner spindle member end 36 includes an inner spindlemember projection 37 for insertion into a mounting element socket,which, in the present invention, consists of sockets 17 on the innersurfaces 15 of brackets 14. An outer spindle member 31 defines an outerspindle member interior 34 and has an outer spindle member end 32. Theouter spindle member end 32 includes an outer spindle member projection33 for insertion into socket 17 on the inner surface 15 of the opposingbracket 17. The inner spindle member 35 is telescopically receivedwithin the outer spindle member interior 34 with the projections spacedfrom one another. Spring means 40 disposed within the inner and outerspindle member interiors biases the inner spindle member 35 and theouter spindle member 31 away from each other. Thus, the spindle membersare free to move relative to one another in an axial direction to acertain extent determined by the length of the spindle members andspring means 40. Spring means 40 provides sufficient biasing means tomaintain brackets 14 in their erect service positions even when device10 is resting un-mounted vertically on a surface.

FIGS. 7 and 8 of the drawings illustrate the dispensing apparatus 10 innormal use in an un-mounted, vertical position. When it is desired toremove a selected segment of roll 50, the leading section 54 of roll 50is gripped and is pulled, thereby rotating roll 50 on axiallycompressible support tube assembly 30. The upper bracket 14 is thendepressed from the position shown in FIG. 7 to that shown in FIG. 8,wherein the roll is frictionally gripped between brackets 14, and springmeans 40 within axially compressible support tube assembly 30 becomescompressed, as shown in FIG. 8. The leading section 54 is then grippedand pulled so that the perforated line is severed. The user then removeshis hand from bracket 14, whereby bracket 14 is pressed back into itserect service position substantially perpendicular to the surface ofbase 12 by the decompression of axially compressible support tubeassembly 30, after which roll 50 may again be freely rotated.

To initially insert a roll 50, axially compressible support tubeassembly 30 is removed from between brackets 14 and the hollow core ofroll 50 is telescoped over axially compressible support tube assembly30. The axially compressible support tube assembly 30 is then reinsertedinto sockets 17 on the inner surfaces 15 of brackets 14. In thisposition, spring means 40 biases the brackets 14 away from each other,into their erect service positions substantially perpendicular to base12, so that the upper bracket 14 is spaced from the upper edge of roll50.

CONCLUSION, RAMIFICATIONS, AND SCOPE OF INVENTION

Thus the reader will see that the present invention provides an easy touse, simple to manufacture, hygienic, reliable, versatile, convenient,economical, and environmentally-friendly dispenser for rolled sheetmaterial.

While the above description contains many specificities, these shouldnot be construed as limitations on the scope of the invention, butrather as an exemplification of one preferred embodiment thereof. Manyother variations are possible, such as changing the size of the deviceor individual parts depending on the application. For example, thelength of base 12 can be varied according to the length of the roll itis to be used with. Similarly, the length of brackets 14 can be varieddepending on the width of the roll it is to be used with. Additionally,the present invention can be made to be adjustable in length or width,such as base 12 being made adjustable for length to better facilitateits use with rolls of different heights, or means may be provided in thedispenser for changing the position of one or both of brackets 14 withrespect to the associated base 12 so that rolls of differing lengths maybe accommodated by dispenser 10.

If desired, brackets 14 can be hingedly mounted in a predetermined,spaced relationship directly to a wall, cabinet, or other surfacewithout the need for a base 12, as shown in FIG. 9, where W indicatessuch a surface. This alternative embodiment shows the versatility of thepresent invention, since there are many surfaces that would accommodatethe present invention in this form. Brackets 14 can also be hingedlyattached in a similar fashion to pedestals 66 that are then secured inpredetermined, spaced relationship to surface W, as shown in FIG. 9A.

The brackets can have overhangs which cover the ends of base 12, asillustrated in FIG. 10, indicated by bracket overhang, 60.

Also, if desired, a device to aid the tearing of sheets from the rollcan be added to the present invention, including but not limited to atearing bar or a bar with a sharp edge or teeth, for rolls that are moredifficult to tear from, or are non-perforated, and the unit would stilloperate in the same desired manner. The edges of base 12 can be used toaid tearing of sheets from a roll in this fashion, when the presentinvention is in a vertical, un-mounted position.

The brackets 14 can be made so that they are flexible, for example bymaking them with springy or flexible material, so that they can beconnected to base 12 or surface W in a permanent fashion, instead of viaa hinging mechanism. In this case, the user would simply push inward ona bracket 14, and it will bend in towards roll 50 to brake the rollbetween brackets 14. Similarly, the base 12 can be made so that it isflexible, or both the brackets 14 and the base 12 can be made so thatthey are flexible, whereby base 12 and brackets 14 may be made togetheras a single piece. In either case, brackets 14 optimally should beprevented from being pressed outward during use, therefore theflexibility should be limited to allow only the inward pressing ofbrackets 14.

The present invention can be made with many kinds of hinging means ormethods. For example, FIG. 12 shows the present invention made with aliving hinge 62. In this variation, as well as similar variations wherethe material that the device is made of provides sufficient flexibility,such as certain plastics or sheet metal, the base and brackets can bemade as a single piece, obviating the need for a separate hingingmechanism.

The present invention can have a mechanism built-in or attached thatwould allow one or both of brackets 14 to be locked in place, for addedstability in vertical, unmounted use, or to have the device work like aconventional dispenser. Similarly, one of brackets 14 may be attachedpermanently. The present invention can be made with base extensions 64for brackets 14 to be hingedly attached to, as shown in FIG. 11, whichwould add stability in vertical, unmounted use.

The individual parts of the present invention can be shaped in anyconfiguration that suits the mechanical and styling needs of users. Forexample, the base can be concavely shaped so that it can be recessedinto a wall, as shown by recessed base 68 in FIG. 13.

The present invention can have its brackets 14 attached to a surface orsurface of a base with attaching means that permit other kinds ofmovement besides hinged and swinging, that still utilize the inherentqualities of an axially compressible support tube assembly, includingbut not limited to sliding or twisting. As an example, FIG. 14 shows thepresent invention with brackets 14 attached at substantially rightangles to base 12 with axially-slidable attachment means 70, wherebywhen a bracket 14 is pressed inwards, the bracket 14 maintains itsposition at substantially right angles to the surface of base 12,sliding inward towards the opposite bracket to sandwich the roll mountedthereon between brackets 14, thereby braking the rotation of the roll.Similarly, brackets 14 can be non-movably attached to a base that itselfhas the ability to slide axially along itself so that the overall lengthof the base compresses when a bracket 14 is pressed inwards.

Alternatively, the present invention can have pressable braking meansaccommodated in one or both brackets 14 that would frictionally engage aroll mounted thereon, as shown in FIGS. 15 and 16 where axiallycompressible support tube assembly 30 is removably mounted between theinwardly-pressable braking means 72. When the user presses on the outersurface 76 of inwardly-pressable braking means 72, the inner surface 74of inwardly-pressable braking means 72 frictionally engages the end of aroll mounted thereon, sandwiching the roll between the twoinwardly-pressable braking means 72, or between one inwardly-pressablebraking means 72 and the opposite bracket if it has no pressable brakingmeans accommodated therein, thus braking the roll. In this alternativeembodiment, brackets 14 may be permanently attached to surface W or base12. FIG. 16A shows a different example of inwardly-pressable brakingmeans 72.

The present invention can have decorative elements that indicate whatthe invention is and how it works, including but not limited toengravings, appliques, raised elements, different texture or materials,printing, color, shapes, etc. For example, a decorative element in theoutline of a human hand, and/or an arrow, logo, picture, trade name,text, etc. could be placed on the outer surface 16 of brackets 14 toencourage a user to press there, as indicated by a hand-shaped logo 78on bracket 14 in FIG. 11. Giving the present invention a trade name thatis suggestive of the motion required to use the device, such asPress-n-Pull™, or a catchy logo, such as “Control the Roll,” would aidin this effort.

The axially compressible support tube assembly 30 can be made to have aseparate cavity within it with corresponding air holes such that incenseor other substances with a pleasing smell may be placed within thiscavity. In one variation of this alternative embodiment, when theaxially compressible support tube assembly is decompressed, the airholes close. When the axially compressible support tube assembly iscompressed during operation of the present invention, the air holesopen, allowing the smell out. Similarly, the present invention can bemade to produce a pleasant sound during operation.

The inner surfaces 15 of brackets 14 can be textured or be given otherfriction-inducing means to aid in the braking of the roll. Similarly,the inner surfaces 15 of brackets 14 can be textured or be given otherfriction-reducing means to aid in the free rotation of the roll.Additionally, the outer surfaces 16 of brackets 14 can be textured or begiven other friction-inducing means to aid in the stability of theholder while in vertical use.

Accordingly, the scope of the invention should be determined not solelyby the embodiments illustrated, but by the appended claims and theirlegal equivalents.

SEQUENCE LISTING: Non applicable

1. A dispensing device for dispensing articles from a roll of saidarticles comprising: a) bracketing means for mounting support means forsupporting said roll therebetween; b) attaching means for attaching saidbracketing means to at least one surface in a predetermined, spacedrelationship, whereby at least one of said bracketing means is movablebetween a first position and a second position; and c) said supportmeans for supporting said roll, removably mounted between saidbracketing means whereby said roll having a hollow core is received oversaid support means, said support means accommodating movement of said atleast one of said bracketing means between said first position and saidsecond position.
 2. A dispensing device as defined in claim 1, in whichsaid bracketing means comprises a pair of opposed brackets.
 3. Adispensing device as defined in claim 1, in which said attaching meansallows hinging movement of said bracketing means.
 4. A dispensing deviceas defined in claim 1, in which said attaching means allows slidingmovement of said bracketing means.
 5. A dispensing device as defined inclaim 1, in which said bracketing means are flexible.
 6. A dispensingdevice as defined in claim 1, in which said support means comprises anaxially compressible support tube assembly, said axially compressiblesupport tube assembly normally biases said bracketing means to saidfirst position, said first position allows free rotation of said roll onsaid support means, and said second position causes the braking of saidfree rotation of said roll.
 7. A dispensing device as defined in claim1, in which said bracketing means comprises a pair of opposed brackets,said support means comprises an axially compressible support tubeassembly, said axially compressible support tube assembly normallybiases said brackets to said first position, said first position allowsfree rotation of said roll on said support means, and said secondposition results in the braking of said free rotation of said roll,whereby an article can readily be severed from said roll.
 8. Adispensing device as defined in claim 1, in which said bracketing meanscomprises a pair of opposed brackets, each bracket having a socket ontheir inner surface for receiving said support means, said attachingmeans allows hinging movement of said brackets, said support meanscomprises an axially compressible support tube assembly, said axiallycompressible support tube assembly normally biases said brackets to saidfirst position, said first position allows free rotation of said roll onsaid support means, and said second position results in the braking ofsaid free rotation of said roll, whereby an article can readily besevered from said roll.
 9. A dispensing device as defined in claim 1, inwhich said bracketing means comprises a pair of opposed brackets, eachbracket having a socket on their inner surface for receiving saidsupport means, said attaching means allows sliding movement of saidbrackets, said support means comprises an axially compressible supporttube assembly, said axially compressible support tube assembly normallybiases said brackets to said first position, said first position allowsfree rotation of said roll on said support means, and said secondposition results in the braking of said free rotation of said roll,whereby an article can readily be severed from said roll.
 10. Adispensing device for dispensing articles from a roll of said articlescomprising: a) bracketing means for mounting support means forsupporting said roll therebetween; b) attaching means for attaching saidbracketing means to at least one surface of at least one base in apredetermined, spaced relationship, whereby at least one of saidbracketing means is movable between a first position and a secondposition; and c) said support means for supporting said roll removablymounted between said bracketing means, whereby said roll having a hollowcore is received over said support means, said support meansaccommodating movement of said at least one of said bracketing meansbetween said first position and said second position.
 11. A dispensingdevice as defined in claim 10, in which said bracketing means comprisesa pair of opposed brackets.
 12. A dispensing device as defined in claim10, in which said attaching means allows hinging movement of saidbracketing means.
 13. A dispensing device as defined in claim 10, inwhich said attaching means allows sliding movement of said bracketingmeans.
 14. A dispensing device as defined in claim 10, in which saidbracketing means comprises a pair of opposed brackets, each brackethaving a socket for receiving said support means, said attaching meansallows hinging movement of said brackets, said support means comprisesan axially compressible support tube assembly, said axially compressiblesupport tube assembly normally biases said brackets to said firstposition, said first position allows free rotation of said roll on saidsupport means, and said second position brings said at least one of saidbracketing means toward the edges of said roll to grip and hold saidroll in a predetermined position between said bracketing means so thatan article can readily be severed from said roll.
 15. A dispensingdevice as defined in claim 10, in which said bracketing means comprisesa pair of opposed brackets, each bracket having a socket for receivingsaid support means, said attaching means allows sliding movement of saidbrackets, said support means comprises an axially compressible supporttube assembly, said axially compressible support tube assembly normallybiases said brackets to said first position, said first position allowsfree rotation of said roll on said support means, and said secondposition brings said at least one of said bracketing means toward theedges of said roll to grip and hold said roll in a predeterminedposition between said bracketing means so that an article can readily besevered from said roll.
 16. A dispensing device as defined in claim 10,in which said base is concavely shaped.
 17. A dispensing device asdefined in claim 10, in which said base is flexible.
 18. A dispensingdevice as defined in claim 10, in which said base is adjustablelengthwise.
 19. A dispensing device for dispensing articles from a rollof said articles comprising: a) at least one pressing means for brakingthe rotation of said roll; b) a pair of opposed brackets, at least oneof said brackets supporting said at least one pressing means; c)attaching means for attaching said brackets to at least one surface in apredetermined, spaced relationship; and d) support means for supportingsaid roll, removably mounted within said dispensing device whereby saidroll having a hollow core is received over said support means, saidsupport means accommodating movement of said at least one pressing meansbetween a first position and a second position.
 20. A dispensing deviceas defined in claim 19, in which said support means comprises an axiallycompressible support tube assembly, said axially compressible supporttube assembly normally biases said pressing means to said firstposition, said first position allows free rotation of said roll on saidsupport means, and said second position results in the braking of saidfree rotation of said roll, whereby an article can readily be severedfrom said roll.